Living Expenses in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to some of its Gulf neighbors like the UAE and Qatar. However, expenses can vary widely depending on the city, lifestyle, and housing choices. While the country has historically benefited from government subsidies on essentials like fuel and utilities, recent economic reforms and rising prices have impacted living costs. Expatriates may find certain expenses higher than before, especially in major urban centers. To better understand the financial requirements of living in Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to analyze specific expense categories such as housing, food, transportation, and personal care.
Specific Expense Categories (with estimated costs) in Saudi Arabia
To give you a detailed picture, let's break down expenses into categories. Please note that prices can vary significantly based on the city (e.g., Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam), location within the city, and your lifestyle choices.
|
Category |
Russia (₽) |
South Africa (USD) |
Saudi Arabia (SAR) |
|
Housing (Rent - Monthly) |
|
|
|
|
1-bedroom (city center) |
₽104,544 (85m² furnished) |
$370 – $740 |
3,000 – 6,000 SAR |
|
1-bedroom (outside city) |
₽60,730 (85m² furnished) |
$265 – $480 |
2,000 – 4,000 SAR |
|
3-bedroom (city center) |
Not provided |
$800 – $1,590 |
6,000 – 12,000 SAR |
|
3-bedroom (outside city) |
Not provided |
$530 – $955 |
4,000 – 8,000 SAR |
|
Food & Groceries |
|
|
|
|
1 liter of milk |
₽86 |
$0.95 – $1.33 |
800 – 1,500 SAR (monthly) |
|
1 loaf of bread |
₽40 |
$0.74 – $1.06 |
Not specified |
|
1 kg of rice |
₽90 |
$1.33 – $2.12 |
Not specified |
|
12 eggs |
₽144 |
$1.86 – $2.65 |
Not specified |
|
1 kg of chicken breast |
₽219 |
$3.97 – $5.83 |
Not specified |
|
1 kg of beef |
₽850 |
$6.36 – $9.53 |
Not specified |
|
Basic lunch (business district) |
₽516 |
$4.24 – $7.95 |
15 – 30 SAR |
|
Three-course meal (for 2) |
₽3,349 |
$21.19 – $42.38 |
80 – 200+ SAR |
|
Transportation |
|
|
|
|
Monthly public transport pass |
₽2,070 |
$37.10 – $79.65 |
Varies by city |
|
One-way bus ticket |
₽60 – ₽75 |
$0.80 – $1.59 |
Available but city-dependent |
|
1 liter of gasoline |
₽55 |
$1.22 – $1.38 |
Cheap due to subsidies |
|
Volkswagen Golf (new) |
₽2,623,330 |
$18,550 – $23,850 |
Not specified |
|
Taxi per km |
₽25 – ₽50 |
$0.53 – $1.06 |
10 – 15 SAR (starting fare) |
|
Utilities & Internet |
|
|
|
|
Basic utilities (monthly) |
₽8,180 |
Not provided |
400 – 800 SAR |
|
Internet (unlimited, 60 Mbps) |
₽841 |
Not provided |
150 – 300+ SAR |
|
Mobile phone plan |
₽3.22 per min |
Not provided |
100 – 200+ SAR |
|
Entertainment & Leisure |
|
|
|
|
Cinema ticket |
₽670 |
Not provided |
40 – 70 SAR |
|
Gym membership (monthly) |
₽3,415 |
Not provided |
200 – 500+ SAR |
|
Theme park entry |
Not provided |
Not provided |
100 – 300+ SAR |
The Cost of Living in Top Cities of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is home to a diverse range of cities, each with its unique lifestyle, economic opportunities, and living costs. The cost of living in the Kingdom varies significantly based on factors such as location, housing, transportation, and entertainment options. Major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah offer a modern and cosmopolitan lifestyle but come with higher expenses, while cities like Tabuk and Buraydah provide more affordable living conditions. Religious hubs like Makkah and Madinah experience fluctuating costs due to seasonal tourism. Understanding these differences helps residents and expatriates plan their budgets effectively.
Cost of Living in Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is the country’s financial, political, and cultural hub. It is the largest city in the Kingdom, known for its modern skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, and a rapidly growing economy. Riyadh has a higher cost of living, especially in terms of housing and dining, but it also offers many career opportunities in various industries. The city experiences extreme heat in summer, and its public transportation system is still developing.
|
Category |
Item |
Cost (SAR) |
|
Food |
Basic lunchtime menu (business district) |
35 |
|
Combo meal at fast food restaurant |
30 |
|
|
500g boneless chicken breast |
15 |
|
|
1 liter whole-fat milk |
7 |
|
|
12 large eggs |
12 |
|
|
1kg tomatoes |
8 |
|
|
500g local cheese |
30 |
|
|
1kg apples |
10 |
|
|
1kg potatoes |
5 |
|
|
0.5L domestic beer (non-alcoholic, supermarket) |
8 |
|
|
1 bottle red table wine (imported, good quality) |
100+ |
|
|
2L Coca-Cola |
6 |
|
|
Bread for two people (1 day) |
3 |
|
|
Housing |
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, expensive area) |
8,000 |
|
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, normal area) |
5,500 |
|
|
Utilities (85m² flat, 2 people, monthly) |
700 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, expensive) |
5,000 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, normal) |
3,000 |
|
|
Utilities (45m² studio, 1 person, monthly) |
400 |
|
|
Internet (100 Mbps, per month) |
250 |
|
|
Household Items |
40” flat-screen TV |
1,500 |
|
Microwave (800/900W, major brands) |
350 |
|
|
Laundry detergent (3L) |
30 |
|
|
Hourly rate for cleaning help |
40 |
|
|
Clothing |
1 pair of Levi’s 501 jeans |
250 |
|
1 summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.) |
180 |
|
|
1 pair of Nike/Adidas sports shoes |
350 |
|
|
1 pair of men’s leather business shoes |
400 |
|
|
Transportation |
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (new, no extras) |
80,000 |
|
1 liter of gasoline |
2.30 |
|
|
Monthly public transport pass |
200 |
|
|
Personal Care |
Cold medicine for 6 days (Tylenol, Coldrex) |
25 |
|
1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) |
45 |
|
|
Short private doctor visit (15 minutes) |
150 |
|
|
1 box of 32 tampons |
20 |
|
|
Roll-on deodorant (50ml) |
15 |
|
|
2-in-1 shampoo (400ml) |
12 |
|
|
4 rolls of toilet paper |
10 |
|
|
Tube of toothpaste |
8 |
|
|
Standard men’s haircut (expat area) |
50 |
|
|
Entertainment |
Basic dinner for two (casual restaurant) |
100 |
|
2 movie tickets |
80 |
|
|
2 theater tickets (best available seats) |
250 |
|
|
Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (wine) |
300 |
|
|
1 cocktail drink (hotel lounge) |
50 |
|
|
Cappuccino (expat area) |
15 |
|
|
1 beer in a hotel lounge (non-alcoholic) |
30 |
|
|
iPad Wi-Fi (128GB) |
2,500 |
|
|
1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no plan) |
0.30 |
|
|
Monthly gym membership (business district) |
300 |
|
|
1 pack of Marlboro cigarettes |
30 |
Cost of Living in Madinah
Madinah, also known as Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, is the second holiest city in Islam after Makkah. It is home to the Prophet's Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi), a major pilgrimage site for Muslims. Unlike Makkah, non-Muslims can enter certain parts of the city. Madinah has a quieter atmosphere compared to other Saudi cities, with a strong focus on religious tourism and historical significance. The cost of living is moderate, with housing and daily expenses generally more affordable than in Riyadh and Jeddah.
|
Category |
Item |
Cost (SAR) |
|
Food |
Basic lunchtime menu (business district) |
30 |
|
Combo meal at fast food restaurant |
28 |
|
|
500g boneless chicken breast |
14 |
|
|
1 liter whole-fat milk |
6.50 |
|
|
12 large eggs |
11 |
|
|
1kg tomatoes |
7 |
|
|
500g local cheese |
28 |
|
|
1kg apples |
9 |
|
|
1kg potatoes |
4.50 |
|
|
0.5L domestic beer (non-alcoholic, supermarket) |
7 |
|
|
1 bottle red table wine (imported, good quality) |
100+ |
|
|
2L Coca-Cola |
5.50 |
|
|
Bread for two people (1 day) |
2.50 |
|
|
Housing |
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, expensive area) |
6,500 |
|
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, normal area) |
4,500 |
|
|
Utilities (85m² flat, 2 people, monthly) |
600 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, expensive) |
4,000 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, normal) |
2,500 |
|
|
Utilities (45m² studio, 1 person, monthly) |
350 |
|
|
Internet (100 Mbps, per month) |
230 |
|
|
Household Items |
40” flat-screen TV |
1,400 |
|
Microwave (800/900W, major brands) |
320 |
|
|
Laundry detergent (3L) |
28 |
|
|
Hourly rate for cleaning help |
35 |
|
|
Clothing |
1 pair of Levi’s 501 jeans |
230 |
|
1 summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.) |
170 |
|
|
1 pair of Nike/Adidas sports shoes |
330 |
|
|
1 pair of men’s leather business shoes |
380 |
|
|
Transportation |
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (new, no extras) |
78,000 |
|
1 liter of gasoline |
2.30 |
|
|
Monthly public transport pass |
180 |
|
|
Personal Care |
Cold medicine for 6 days (Tylenol, Coldrex) |
24 |
|
1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) |
42 |
|
|
Short private doctor visit (15 minutes) |
140 |
|
|
1 box of 32 tampons |
18 |
|
|
Roll-on deodorant (50ml) |
14 |
|
|
2-in-1 shampoo (400ml) |
11 |
|
|
4 rolls of toilet paper |
9 |
|
|
Tube of toothpaste |
7 |
|
|
Standard men’s haircut (expat area) |
45 |
|
|
Entertainment |
Basic dinner for two (casual restaurant) |
90 |
|
2 movie tickets |
75 |
|
|
2 theater tickets (best available seats) |
230 |
|
|
Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (wine) |
280 |
|
|
1 cocktail drink (hotel lounge) |
45 |
|
|
Cappuccino (expat area) |
14 |
|
|
1 beer in a hotel lounge (non-alcoholic) |
28 |
|
|
iPad Wi-Fi (128GB) |
2,400 |
|
|
1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no plan) |
0.28 |
|
|
Monthly gym membership (business district) |
280 |
|
|
1 pack of Marlboro cigarettes |
28 |
Madinah generally has a lower cost of living compared to Riyadh.
Housing is more affordable in Madinah, especially in normal areas.
Food and personal care items are slightly cheaper than in Riyadh.
Alcoholic beverages are not available due to local regulations; only non-alcoholic versions are sold.
Cost of Living in Makkah
Makkah is the holiest city in Islam and the annual destination for millions of Muslim pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. The city is known for the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) and the Kaaba, Islam’s most sacred site. Due to its religious significance, non-Muslims are not permitted to enter. The cost of living varies, with high prices near the Haram area due to tourism demand, while other parts of the city offer more affordable options.
|
Category |
Item |
Cost (SAR) |
|
Food |
Basic lunchtime menu (business district) |
35 |
|
Combo meal at fast food restaurant |
30 |
|
|
500g boneless chicken breast |
15 |
|
|
1 liter whole-fat milk |
7 |
|
|
12 large eggs |
12 |
|
|
1kg tomatoes |
8 |
|
|
500g local cheese |
30 |
|
|
1kg apples |
10 |
|
|
1kg potatoes |
5 |
|
|
0.5L domestic beer (non-alcoholic, supermarket) |
8 |
|
|
1 bottle red table wine (imported, good quality) |
100+ |
|
|
2L Coca-Cola |
6 |
|
|
Bread for two people (1 day) |
3 |
|
|
Housing |
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, expensive area) |
7,500 |
|
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, normal area) |
5,000 |
|
|
Utilities (85m² flat, 2 people, monthly) |
650 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, expensive) |
4,500 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, normal) |
3,000 |
|
|
Utilities (45m² studio, 1 person, monthly) |
400 |
|
|
Internet (100 Mbps, per month) |
250 |
|
|
Household Items |
40” flat-screen TV |
1,500 |
|
Microwave (800/900W, major brands) |
350 |
|
|
Laundry detergent (3L) |
30 |
|
|
Hourly rate for cleaning help |
40 |
|
|
Clothing |
1 pair of Levi’s 501 jeans |
250 |
|
1 summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.) |
180 |
|
|
1 pair of Nike/Adidas sports shoes |
350 |
|
|
1 pair of men’s leather business shoes |
400 |
|
|
Transportation |
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (new, no extras) |
80,000 |
|
1 liter of gasoline |
2.30 |
|
|
Monthly public transport pass |
200 |
|
|
Personal Care |
Cold medicine for 6 days (Tylenol, Coldrex) |
25 |
|
1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) |
45 |
|
|
Short private doctor visit (15 minutes) |
150 |
|
|
1 box of 32 tampons |
20 |
|
|
Roll-on deodorant (50ml) |
15 |
|
|
2-in-1 shampoo (400ml) |
12 |
|
|
4 rolls of toilet paper |
10 |
|
|
Tube of toothpaste |
8 |
|
|
Standard men’s haircut (expat area) |
50 |
|
|
Entertainment |
Basic dinner for two (casual restaurant) |
100 |
|
2 movie tickets |
80 |
|
|
2 theater tickets (best available seats) |
250 |
|
|
Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (wine) |
300 |
|
|
1 cocktail drink (hotel lounge) |
50 |
|
|
Cappuccino (expat area) |
15 |
|
|
1 beer in a hotel lounge (non-alcoholic) |
30 |
|
|
iPad Wi-Fi (128GB) |
2,500 |
|
|
1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no plan) |
0.30 |
|
|
Monthly gym membership (business district) |
300 |
|
|
1 pack of Marlboro cigarettes |
30 |
Notes:
- Makkah has a slightly higher cost of living than Madinah but is still cheaper than Riyadh.
- Housing costs fluctuate significantly, especially near the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram), where prices rise due to demand from pilgrims.
- Food and transportation costs remain affordable, with local produce and fuel being inexpensive.
- Public transport is improving, but taxis and private cars are still the main mode of travel.
- No alcohol is available, and entertainment options are limited compared to Riyadh.
Cost of Living in Jeddah
Jeddah is Saudi Arabia’s main port city on the Red Sea and a major commercial center. It is known for its vibrant mix of modernity and tradition, with historic sites like Al-Balad, luxury beachfront resorts, and a lively arts and culture scene. Jeddah is often considered the most open and cosmopolitan city in the Kingdom. The cost of living is moderate to high, especially in upscale areas, but the city offers a more relaxed lifestyle compared to Riyadh.
|
Category |
Item |
Cost (SAR) |
|
Food |
Basic lunchtime menu (business district) |
40 |
|
Combo meal at fast food restaurant |
30 |
|
|
500g boneless chicken breast |
17 |
|
|
1 liter whole-fat milk |
8 |
|
|
12 large eggs |
14 |
|
|
1kg tomatoes |
9 |
|
|
500g local cheese |
35 |
|
|
1kg apples |
12 |
|
|
1kg potatoes |
6 |
|
|
0.5L domestic beer (non-alcoholic, supermarket) |
9 |
|
|
1 bottle red table wine (imported, good quality) |
120+ |
|
|
2L Coca-Cola |
7 |
|
|
Bread for two people (1 day) |
4 |
|
|
Housing |
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, expensive area) |
8,000 |
|
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, normal area) |
5,500 |
|
|
Utilities (85m² flat, 2 people, monthly) |
700 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, expensive) |
4,800 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, normal) |
3,500 |
|
|
Utilities (45m² studio, 1 person, monthly) |
450 |
|
|
Internet (100 Mbps, per month) |
270 |
|
|
Household Items |
40” flat-screen TV |
1,700 |
|
Microwave (800/900W, major brands) |
400 |
|
|
Laundry detergent (3L) |
35 |
|
|
Hourly rate for cleaning help |
45 |
|
|
Clothing |
1 pair of Levi’s 501 jeans |
280 |
|
1 summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.) |
190 |
|
|
1 pair of Nike/Adidas sports shoes |
380 |
|
|
1 pair of men’s leather business shoes |
450 |
|
|
Transportation |
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (new, no extras) |
85,000 |
|
1 liter of gasoline |
2.30 |
|
|
Monthly public transport pass |
220 |
|
|
Personal Care |
Cold medicine for 6 days (Tylenol, Coldrex) |
28 |
|
1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) |
50 |
|
|
Short private doctor visit (15 minutes) |
180 |
|
|
1 box of 32 tampons |
22 |
|
|
Roll-on deodorant (50ml) |
16 |
|
|
2-in-1 shampoo (400ml) |
14 |
|
|
4 rolls of toilet paper |
12 |
|
|
Tube of toothpaste |
9 |
|
|
Standard men’s haircut (expat area) |
55 |
|
|
Entertainment |
Basic dinner for two (casual restaurant) |
120 |
|
2 movie tickets |
90 |
|
|
2 theater tickets (best available seats) |
300 |
|
|
Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (wine) |
350 |
|
|
1 cocktail drink (hotel lounge) |
55 |
|
|
Cappuccino (expat area) |
18 |
|
|
1 beer in a hotel lounge (non-alcoholic) |
35 |
|
|
iPad Wi-Fi (128GB) |
2,700 |
|
|
1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no plan) |
0.35 |
|
|
Monthly gym membership (business district) |
320 |
|
|
1 pack of Marlboro cigarettes |
32 |
Notes:
- Jeddah is one of the most expensive cities in Saudi Arabia, but it offers a coastal lifestyle with access to the Red Sea.
- Housing is relatively high-priced, especially in beachfront areas like the Corniche.
- Food is moderately priced, with a mix of affordable local markets and high-end dining options.
- Public transport is improving, but most residents rely on taxis or private cars.
- Entertainment options are broader compared to Makkah and Madinah, with more dining, shopping, and recreational facilities.
Cost of Living in Tabuk
Tabuk is a northern city in Saudi Arabia, close to the borders of Jordan and the Red Sea. It is becoming an important economic hub due to large-scale development projects like NEOM. Historically, Tabuk has been a key military and trade city, with a cooler climate compared to the central and southern regions of the Kingdom. The cost of living in Tabuk is lower than in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah, making it an affordable place to live.
|
Category |
Item |
Cost (SAR) |
|
Food |
Basic lunchtime menu (business district) |
35 |
|
Combo meal at fast food restaurant |
28 |
|
|
500g boneless chicken breast |
16 |
|
|
1 liter whole-fat milk |
7 |
|
|
12 large eggs |
13 |
|
|
1kg tomatoes |
8 |
|
|
500g local cheese |
32 |
|
|
1kg apples |
11 |
|
|
1kg potatoes |
6 |
|
|
0.5L domestic beer (non-alcoholic, supermarket) |
8 |
|
|
1 bottle red table wine (imported, good quality) |
110+ |
|
|
2L Coca-Cola |
6 |
|
|
Bread for two people (1 day) |
3.50 |
|
|
Housing |
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, expensive area) |
4,500 |
|
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, normal area) |
3,500 |
|
|
Utilities (85m² flat, 2 people, monthly) |
600 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, expensive) |
3,200 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, normal) |
2,500 |
|
|
Utilities (45m² studio, 1 person, monthly) |
400 |
|
|
Internet (100 Mbps, per month) |
250 |
|
|
Household Items |
40” flat-screen TV |
1,500 |
|
Microwave (800/900W, major brands) |
380 |
|
|
Laundry detergent (3L) |
30 |
|
|
Hourly rate for cleaning help |
40 |
|
|
Clothing |
1 pair of Levi’s 501 jeans |
260 |
|
1 summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.) |
180 |
|
|
1 pair of Nike/Adidas sports shoes |
350 |
|
|
1 pair of men’s leather business shoes |
420 |
|
|
Transportation |
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (new, no extras) |
82,000 |
|
1 liter of gasoline |
2.30 |
|
|
Monthly public transport pass |
180 |
|
|
Personal Care |
Cold medicine for 6 days (Tylenol, Coldrex) |
27 |
|
1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) |
45 |
|
|
Short private doctor visit (15 minutes) |
160 |
|
|
1 box of 32 tampons |
20 |
|
|
Roll-on deodorant (50ml) |
15 |
|
|
2-in-1 shampoo (400ml) |
12 |
|
|
4 rolls of toilet paper |
10 |
|
|
Tube of toothpaste |
8 |
|
|
Standard men’s haircut (expat area) |
50 |
|
|
Entertainment |
Basic dinner for two (casual restaurant) |
100 |
|
2 movie tickets |
75 |
|
|
2 theater tickets (best available seats) |
250 |
|
|
Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (wine) |
280 |
|
|
1 cocktail drink (hotel lounge) |
50 |
|
|
Cappuccino (expat area) |
15 |
|
|
1 beer in a hotel lounge (non-alcoholic) |
30 |
|
|
iPad Wi-Fi (128GB) |
2,600 |
|
|
1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no plan) |
0.30 |
|
|
Monthly gym membership (business district) |
250 |
|
|
1 pack of Marlboro cigarettes |
30 |
Tabuk is more affordable than major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
Housing costs are lower, but availability can be limited in high-end areas.
Food and dining are slightly cheaper compared to Jeddah and Riyadh.
Public transport options are limited, so most residents rely on cars.
Entertainment is more relaxed, with fewer high-end venues than Jeddah.
Cost of Living in Buraydah
Buraydah is the capital of the Al-Qassim region, known for its agricultural industry, particularly dates and wheat production. The city has a more traditional and conservative atmosphere compared to coastal cities like Jeddah. It offers a lower cost of living, with affordable housing and daily expenses. Buraydah is ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle with a strong connection to Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage.
|
Category |
Item |
Cost (SAR) |
|
Food |
Basic lunchtime menu (business district) |
30 |
|
Combo meal at fast food restaurant |
25 |
|
|
500g boneless chicken breast |
15 |
|
|
1 liter whole-fat milk |
6.50 |
|
|
12 large eggs |
12 |
|
|
1kg tomatoes |
7.50 |
|
|
500g local cheese |
30 |
|
|
1kg apples |
10 |
|
|
1kg potatoes |
5.50 |
|
|
0.5L domestic beer (non-alcoholic, supermarket) |
7 |
|
|
1 bottle red table wine (imported, good quality) |
110+ |
|
|
2L Coca-Cola |
6 |
|
|
Bread for two people (1 day) |
3.50 |
|
|
Housing |
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, expensive area) |
4,000 |
|
Monthly rent (85m², furnished, normal area) |
3,000 |
|
|
Utilities (85m² flat, 2 people, monthly) |
550 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, expensive) |
3,000 |
|
|
Monthly rent (45m², furnished studio, normal) |
2,200 |
|
|
Utilities (45m² studio, 1 person, monthly) |
400 |
|
|
Internet (100 Mbps, per month) |
230 |
|
|
Household Items |
40” flat-screen TV |
1,400 |
|
Microwave (800/900W, major brands) |
350 |
|
|
Laundry detergent (3L) |
28 |
|
|
Hourly rate for cleaning help |
35 |
|
|
Clothing |
1 pair of Levi’s 501 jeans |
250 |
|
1 summer dress (Zara, H&M, etc.) |
170 |
|
|
1 pair of Nike/Adidas sports shoes |
340 |
|
|
1 pair of men’s leather business shoes |
400 |
|
|
Transportation |
Volkswagen Golf 1.4 TSI (new, no extras) |
80,000 |
|
1 liter of gasoline |
2.30 |
|
|
Monthly public transport pass |
150 |
|
|
Personal Care |
Cold medicine for 6 days (Tylenol, Coldrex) |
25 |
|
1 box of antibiotics (12 doses) |
40 |
|
|
Short private doctor visit (15 minutes) |
150 |
|
|
1 box of 32 tampons |
18 |
|
|
Roll-on deodorant (50ml) |
14 |
|
|
2-in-1 shampoo (400ml) |
11 |
|
|
4 rolls of toilet paper |
9 |
|
|
Tube of toothpaste |
7 |
|
|
Standard men’s haircut (expat area) |
45 |
|
|
Entertainment |
Basic dinner for two (casual restaurant) |
90 |
|
2 movie tickets |
70 |
|
|
2 theater tickets (best available seats) |
230 |
|
|
Dinner for two at an Italian restaurant (wine) |
260 |
|
|
1 cocktail drink (hotel lounge) |
45 |
|
|
Cappuccino (expat area) |
14 |
|
|
1 beer in a hotel lounge (non-alcoholic) |
28 |
|
|
iPad Wi-Fi (128GB) |
2,500 |
|
|
1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no plan) |
0.30 |
|
|
Monthly gym membership (business district) |
230 |
|
|
1 pack of Marlboro cigarettes |
28 |
Notes:
Buraydah is relatively affordable compared to Riyadh and Jeddah.
Housing and food costs are lower than in larger Saudi cities.
Public transport is minimal, so most people rely on private cars.
Entertainme1. Compared to Other Gulf Countriesnt options are limited, with fewer high-end restaurants and nightlife compared to Jeddah.
Is Saudi Arabia Expensive to Live In?
The cost of living in Saudi Arabia depends on various factors, including lifestyle, location, and personal spending habits. Compared to other Gulf nations, Saudi Arabia is generally more affordable than the UAE and Qatar, where rent and daily expenses tend to be significantly higher. However, it can be more expensive than neighboring countries like Oman and Bahrain, especially in major urban centers.
1. Housing CostsHousing costs vary across cities. In Riyadh and Jeddah, rent is relatively high, particularly in expat-friendly areas. In contrast, Makkah and Madinah have expensive properties near the Holy Mosques, but more affordable options are available in suburban neighborhoods. Cities like Tabuk and Buraydah offer lower rental prices, making them more budget-friendly alternatives.
2. Food & Daily ExpensesFood and daily expenses are generally affordable, especially when purchasing local groceries. However, dining out at international restaurants in major cities can be costly. Expats who prefer cooking at home and shopping at local markets will find their food expenses significantly lower than those who frequently eat at high-end establishments.
3. Transportation CostsTransportation costs in Saudi Arabia are quite reasonable, thanks to the low fuel prices, which hover around SAR 2.18 per liter. Car ownership is common, as public transportation is still developing in many areas. While Riyadh and Jeddah have improved transport systems, smaller cities rely mainly on taxis and private vehicles.
4. Utilities & InternetUtilities and internet expenses are moderate. While electricity and water are subsidized, high summer temperatures result in increased air conditioning use, leading to higher utility bills. Internet costs are comparable to those in other Gulf countries, offering a range of options depending on speed and service provider.
5. Salaries vs. ExpensesSalaries play a crucial role in determining affordability. Expats in high-paying industries such as finance, healthcare, and IT generally find the cost of living manageable, especially given the tax-free income. However, lower-income workers may find it more challenging to cope with rising costs, particularly after the removal of certain government subsidies.
6. Tax BenefitsOne of the biggest financial advantages of living in Saudi Arabia is the absence of personal income tax, which allows expats to retain their full earnings. However, the increase in VAT to 15% in 2020 has raised the cost of goods and services, impacting overall expenses.
In Conclusion
Living in Saudi Arabia can be expensive for those who maintain a luxury lifestyle in major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. However, it remains affordable for individuals who choose to live in smaller cities or follow a moderate spending pattern. While costs have risen in recent years, Saudi Arabia remains more budget-friendly than many other Gulf nations, particularly due to its tax-free salaries and relatively low transportation expenses.
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